Honda Plans to Expand Use of Fuel Injection Systems, from 50 cc Engines on up

Tokyo, September 6, 1999 --- Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to install its programmed fuel injection system (PGM-FI) - effective for improved fuel consumption and low emissions - in 50cc class two-wheelers as well as the company's larger engine capacity motorcycles. Until now, PGM-FI installation has been limited to the company's larger engine capacity motorcycles, but Honda now intends to adjust system specifications to suit the 50cc classes, which is technically more difficult.

In view of environmental concerns, Honda is also promoting the installation
of 4-stroke engines for motorcycles in order to reduce fuel consumption and exhaust
gas emissions. Along with plans to expand the use of PGM-FI, Honda has set new
targets for exhaust gas emissions reduction and fuel efficiency: by 2005 the company
is determined to reduce total hydrocarbon emissions to 1/3 the 1995 level, and
to improve fuel efficiency by as much as 30% for all Honda motorcycles sold worldwide.

PGM-FI Prototype Model (100 cc 4-stroke engine)

Compared with a carburetor, PGM-FI provides optimized air-fuel mixture control
at all engine revs, thereby further improving combustion conditions. This results
in the promotion of a cleaner-running engine with improved fuel efficiency and
power output characteristics, as well as better starting performance. However,
since motorcycle engines demand delicate accelerator control, fuel injection systems
for motorcycles require exacting precision manufacturing technology for structural
parts, as well as highly accurate electronic control. Owing to the extra development
and manufacturing costs of these technologies, Honda has so far only introduced
fuel injection systems into its bigger motorcycles. Honda now intends to further
develop PGM-FI technology in order to extend its application to more of its smaller
motorcycles at a reasonable cost.

Honda has made environmental protection a priority, and in 1992 announced its
intentions in this area with the release of "Honda Environment Statement". Further,
based on "Honda's Plans Concerning Environmental Remediation", published in 1993,
the company has been striving to develop measures in the motorcycle field to combat
air pollution and help prevent global warming.